NABJ Concerned About Atmosphere at CNN for African Americans

WASHINGTON (October 7, 2014) - The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) is concerned about the atmosphere for African Americans at CNN.

Several African Americans anchors have left the anchor desk or CNN altogether in the past few years including Soledad O'Brien, TJ Holmes and Suzanne Malveaux.

In addition the latest examination of newsroom managers finds only two African American executive producers.

A former writer/producer in CNN's Los Angeles bureau filed a $5 million lawsuit against CNN on Monday that alleges discrimination and wrongful termination.

In the suit, Stanley Wilson alleges he applied for numerous promotions during his 17 years at CNN but was only promoted once in 2003. Wilson claims he was passed over by less experienced employees.

In 2007, NABJ awarded CNN its "Best Practices" award to recognize the news organization for its efforts to increase diversity on air and behind the scenes.

"Since that time, we have seen a number of African Americans leave CNN," said NABJ President Bob Butler. "I know CNN is going through layoffs but the departure of so many African Americans is worrisome."

A CNN official reached by NABJ said the company had no comment.

NABJ has met with CNN several times over the past few years to express concern about the lack of African Americans on camera and in management positions.

As the advocacy organization on behalf of black journalists worldwide, NABJ will continue to monitor the developments of this case as they unfold.

An advocacy group established in 1975 in Washington, D.C., NABJ is the largest organization for journalists of color in the nation, and provides career development as well as educational and other support to its members worldwide. For more information, please visit www.nabj.org.